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Specialist play groups have been set up in Caerphilly for children with disabilities and developmental difficulties.

The groups are run by the Gwent-based charity Sparkle and are held at the Caerphilly Children’s Centre in Energlyn.

On Saturday, March 5, the first group of five to 11-year-olds attended the first play club at the centre, with activities such as colouring, sensory play, Lego and other toys available.

With specially trained workers who can deal with children’s complex needs, parents don’t need to accompany their children at the club. This allows the children to gain independence and socialise with each other, while providing families with much needed respite opportunities.

After becoming a charity partner of Caerphilly Children’s Centre in November 2020, Sparkle reached out to families with children with disabilities in the area and arranged some taster days in September 2021.

The sessions proved to be a success, with parents commenting on the need for such specialist facilities in the area.

Sam Edwards, Sparkle’s Activities Development Officer, said: “After speaking directly with the families when setting up the provision I could see the difference the club is going to make for them.

“All feedback from families has been positive after the first session and we cannot wait to continue growing in the community.”

Mum Danielle, whose six-year-old son Deacon attends the sessions, spoke about her son could often feel left out until joining the club. She said: “This service is absolutely amazing for my son as his mobility is poor and he’s usually the odd one out.”

Another mother said: “Our daughter Alice absolutely loved the session. We would be very keen for her to participate in any future events as there aren’t many opportunities for children like Alice to attend suitable play sessions in Caerphilly.”

Lisa George, Family Liaison Officer at Caerphilly Children’s Centre, said: “Families were so excited when the news of the play clubs broke as a number of families across Caerphilly County Borough have been in need or asking for this service for a number of years.”

Lisa added: “The Sparkle clubs will give so many children the opportunity to take part in social activities within a safe environment. I hope the club develops and we can continue supporting families in this manner.”

For more information about the club’s services and how to access them, visit sparkleappeal.org/